Stabilizing the foreign population
The demographic dynamics of the Vallès Oriental have found a certain balance in the arrival of newcomers. While in 2021 and 2022 they underwent a slight increase due to the repercussions of the Covid-19 Pandemic, in 2023 it marked a significant increase of 10.21%, with 3,919 people entering the region. However, the most recent data from the Statistical Institute of Catalonia (Idescat) show a moderation in this growth, with 6.04% in 2024, which results in 2,554 new additions.
Growth perspectives according to expert
Núria Maynou, technician of the Observatory-Center for Studies of the County Council, emphasizes that the Vallès Oriental is one of the counties with the least percentage of foreign population in Catalonia. He also emphasizes that the population growth of the region mainly comes from internal movements, with a significant concentration of newcomers in cities such as Sabadell, Terrassa and Mataró. However, Granollers and Mollet have increased rates respectively of 15.68% and 13.39%, reflecting a growing interest in these localities.
Cultural diversity and nationalities
The Observatory has identified an amazing diversity with more than 106 nationalities present in the territory. The Moroccan community stands out for its size, followed by the Senegalese and Romanian communities. Maynou has also noticed an increase in population from Latin American countries, such as Colombia and Honduras, in part thanks to the smallest language barrier presented by these cultures.
Installation trends in cities
Newcomers often choose to settle in large cities, seeking the company of other compatriots. For example, it is common to find a significant concentration of Pakistani in Sant Feliu or Senegalese in the Baix Montseny. Maynou observes that this trend is natural, as they seek a family environment that facilitates their adaptation.
Analysis by municipalities
In the municipal stage, Canovelles leads the classification with 20.24% of foreign population by 2024, a moderate increase compared to 2023. Granollers and Mollet, as more populated cities, are also important points of attraction for newcomers. Other localities, such as lobster (13.09%) and Sant Celoni (12.09%), have also experienced growth, though more moderately.
The challenge of housing in lobster
In the Lobster, the arrival of newcomers has reached a stabilization point, but the lack of adequate housing has a considerable challenge. Mayor Oscar Sierra emphasizes that the integration of the foreign population is positive thanks to the various activities offered, especially through sports entities. In addition, the City Council provides a reception and guidance service to help newcomers adapt to local life.
Promotion of culture and traditions
Foreign communities have created multicultural associations that offer language classes and activities to transmit their culture to children born in the lobster. These initiatives are carried out in public spaces, such as the Municipal Library, and are open to all citizens. In addition, during Ramadan, the Muslim community organizes an IFTAR accessible to all, thus fostering intercultural dialogue.
